Carnival Holiday | Dates 2027 | Argentina Extrema

Name: Trekking to the Edge of the Andes - Caviahue and Copahue - Neuquén, Argentina
Start: 2027-01-24T13:00:00-03:00
End: 2027-01-27T18:00:00-03:00
Location: Caviahue

Proposal

Traveling through Pehuén territory, walking on Mapuche land...

A novel route in northern Patagonia, among forests of ancient araucaria trees, silent lakes, endless scree fields, high passes, snow-capped peaks and border markers. A magnificent trek through land of local ranchers and Mapuche reserves, in an unbeatable and little-known natural setting: Northern Patagonia, at the foot of the imposing Copahue Volcano.
West-central Neuquén is one of the environments chosen by a striking and beautiful species, the pehuén or araucaria tree. The Caviahue and Copahue mountain range is also one of the last remaining Mapuche settlement areas to this day. Our route invites you to blend culture with grand landscapes, between the giant and legendary Copahue Volcano and the mysterious Hualcupen lagoon. A trek at a level accessible to everyone who's up for the adventure of camping and hiking through magical places only reachable on foot.

Itinerary

What we present here is the planned route for the trip, but the exact route, layout and choice of alternative itineraries are subject to different factors such as weather conditions and the guide's assessment of the group.

Day before: Meeting in Caviahue in the afternoon. Guide introductions. Overnight stay not included (we can recommend some lodging options based on your preferences).

Day 1: We begin the adventure. Transfer to Valle de las Lecheras. Start of the trek. We head into the mountain range and into a wonderful Pehuen forest, an area used by herders who bring their livestock here after many days' walk from the Patagonian steppe. Hiking time approx 4 hs. Set up camp. Rest.

Day 2: Day of trekking and crossing valleys. We cross a high pass, parallel to the border with Chile, from where we can see Hualcupén Lagoon; then we descend to the waterfall of the same name, where we'll set up our new camp. Enjoy the place and its scenery.

Day 3: We have an early breakfast and start walking toward the ridges that mark the natural border between Argentina and Chile. We'll pass the summit of Cerro Pirámide and descend to the Agrio valley, where we'll visit the famous 7 waterfalls. Set up camp.

Day 4: Descent to Caviahue. Transfer to Las Mellizas Lagoon and ascent of the legendary Copahue Volcano; then we'll descend along the route to Las Mellizas Lagoon and the spot known as Las Máquinas, very close to Copahue. Final transfer to Caviahue. End of the route. End of the program. Ask about lodging.

Included Services

Full board in the mountains
Professional mountain guides.
Portering to campsites by vehicle
Entry fees to Natural or Private reserves.
Nights of lodging at backcountry campsites.
Tents
General camp logistics (pots, stoves, safety gear, orientation).
Ongoing coordination and advice before and during the trip.
Ongoing assistance

Services NOT included

Travel to Caviahue
Lodging in Caviahue (ask us)
personal gear (see section)

Note

Mode: Moderate-level trek. With a personal trekking backpack of no less than 55 liters (10/12 kilos per person at minimum).

Portering to the campsites: done by vehicle.

Included: Ascent of Cerro Pirámide, ascent to the crater of Copahue Volcano, Hualcupén waterfall and lagoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this trek for beginners?

People with little experience can take part, but good physical condition is required. Keep in mind you have to carry your own backpack with your gear plus a share of the group gear.

How much do we walk per day?

Approx between 4 and 7 hours.

How do we get there?

The meeting point is in Caviahue. You can travel to Neuquén and from there a 6-hour scheduled bus.

Where do we sleep?

In tents provided by our company. You need to bring a sleeping bag and sleeping pad (we can rent these to you).

What gear do I need to bring?

There's a section where you can see what you need to bring. A 60 to 80 liter trekking/expedition backpack, trekking footwear, sleeping bag and a third-layer parka jacket are the main items.

What do we eat?

During the activity we eat quick-digesting energy foods like fruit, energy bars, nougat, nuts, etc. At midday, cold food to keep going such as sandwiches, savory pies, empanadas, salads, etc. At night a hearty, hot meal such as pasta with sauce or lentil stew.

Who's a good fit for Carnival Holiday - Caviahue Trekking + Copahue Volcano Ascent, Neuquén?

Carnival Holiday - Caviahue Trekking + Copahue Volcano Ascent, Neuquén is an expedition that any adventurer can take on with the right physical preparation, equipment and prior experience con salida desde Caviahue , in the region Patagonia, Argentina. It lasts 4 days. Todos nuestros programas incluyen guías de montaña certificados, logística de expedición y seguro de accidentes personales.

What physical fitness level is required for Carnival Holiday - Caviahue Trekking + Copahue Volcano Ascent, Neuquén?

Como medir la dificultad de un ascenso o una expedición? es una pregunta que surge a menudo. Para esto desarrollamos un sistema de graduación que ayuda al participante a medir la dificultad, dado a que evaluamos 5 variables sobre la intensidad de cada propuesta.
• The weight of the backpack relative to the length of the day
• The physical demand
• The technical level of the terrain and required equipment
• The degree of mental strength required
• The maximum altitude reached
Hace click el botón y evaluá vos mismo la dificultad ->:

What equipment do I need to take part in the Carnival Holiday - Caviahue Trekking + Copahue Volcano Ascent, Neuquén?

En cada uno de nuestros programas vas encontrar un apartado de EQUIPO REQUERIDO. contá con nosotros para asesorarte y prepararlo de forma adecuada para maximizar el disfrute de la actividad. Contamos con una tienda de alquiler, para resolver si te falta algo.
Chequealo ahora! ->

What's included in Carnival Holiday - Caviahue Trekking + Copahue Volcano Ascent, Neuquén?

Full board in the mountains Professional mountain guides. Portering to campsites by vehicle Entry fees to Natural or Private reserves. Nights of lodging at backcountry campsites. Tents General camp logistics (pots, stoves, safety gear, orientation). Ongoing coordination and advice before and during the trip. Ongoing assistance

What happens if the trip is suspended due to bad weather or other force majeure?

At AEX, the safety of our travelers and guides comes first. Activities are only suspended or modified when weather, political or geographic conditions put the expedition at risk. The decision rests exclusively with the guide team and technical direction, based on official reports (National Weather Service, National Parks or local authorities).

If the trip is suspended, do I lose what I paid?

No. The amount paid becomes a Credit in your favor (Weather Voucher) valid for 18 months from the suspended date: up to 6 months to choose a new date plus 12 months to take part. You can use it for the same expedition or any of our other destinations and experiences, and if you cannot use it within that period you can transfer it to someone else.

Difficulty Graduation System

Click on each indicator to see details

60%

Backpack (M)

Backpack: Weight / Duration of the Day.

Clic para detalles

40%

Physical (F)

Physical demand

Clic para detalles

20%

Technical (T)

Technician: Difficulty in the Field / Equipment.

Clic para detalles

20%

Psycho (P)

Psychological Strength

Clic para detalles

40%

Height (A)

Height Exposure

Clic para detalles

How to interpret these values?

Each aspect is evaluated from 20% to 100%, where:

20-40%: Basic or beginner level
60%: Intermediate level
80-100%: Advanced or expert level

Ideal for beginners

This adventure is perfect for those starting in outdoor activities.

Required equipment

GENERAL GEAR

Special trekking backpack (55 to 80 liters).
Warm sleeping bag (0 degree comfort rating) (e.g. 700g of good down or synthetic fill).
Insulating mat (10 to 15mm).
A pair of trekking poles.

CLOTHING

Socks, (two thick pairs, ski or synthetic).
1 pair of trekking shoes/boots (in good condition)
1 lightweight backup pair of footwear.
Long trekking pants
long warm pants or leggings.
changes of underwear.
t-shirts and/or shirts (one long-sleeved)
warm layers (fleece jacket, or wool sweater)
waterproof jacket
sun hat/cap (with brim) and another warm one
bandana to cover the neck from the sun
Warm gloves and scarf or neck gaiter.
Warm hat

PERSONAL ITEMS

ID document
Health/medical insurance

MISCELLANEOUS

Headlamp with batteries.
Sunglasses.
Sunscreen, lip balm
Toilet paper. Tissues. Baby wipes

KITCHEN

Water containers for at least 2 liters (can be a plastic bottle)
Cutlery
Plate or tupperware. (No glass or aluminum)
Plastic or enameled metal mug (no glass or aluminum).
Dish towel

OPTIONAL, not mandatory (check space and weight)

Warm jacket.
SILVER TAPE, for blisters and repairs.
Mate, bombilla and yerba.
Steel thermos.
Binoculars, monocular. Photo or video equipment.
Book, notebook, travel journal, pencil, pen.
Games; cards, dice, etc
Pocketknife (e.g. Victorinox).
Whistle and lighter.
Sturdy plastic bags to store clothing.

Rental Equipment

Available

Trekking sleeping bag

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Available

Pair of Trekking Poles

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Available

Rental mittens

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Available

Pair of Crampons

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Climbing II - helmet, crampons and pickaxe

Available

Rental : helmet, crampons and ice ax

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Climbing Combo I - helmet, crampons, pickaxe, harness, carabiners, plate, straps, cords

Available

Combo Top: helmet, crampons, ice ax and full harness

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Available

Category 3 sunglasses - Shepra Julbo Spectrom

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Available

Backpack for trekking and mountaineering - Woman

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4.8

147 Google reviews

Carla Verónica Sterki

Plaza de Mulas. Increíble, una experiencia única!! Un viaje maravilloso en todos los sentidos. Los guias con un profesionalismo inmenso, Vane una genia, con una paciencia enorme y siempre muy atenta, cuidadosa y detallista para que podamos disfrutar la experiencia, siempre con muy buena onda y motivando para seguir. Gracias también Roger, Gus y Fede, muchas gracias por todas las buenas energías. Se armó un grupo hermoso. Las vistas y la inmensidad de los paisajes son únicas.

Luciana Durante

Fui a Tres Picos con Mati y Fer de AEX. Todo sucedió como estaba organizado. Tanto los guías como Euge estuvieron disponibles desde el día 1 de la reserva para evacuar todas nuestras dudas y llegar de la mejor manera al trekking. Súper recomendable viajar con AEX.

Guillermina Augustu

Tilcara Calilegua es la travesía mas hermosa que hice, tiene unos paisajes maravillosos . La inmensidad en la montaña es increible. Pero lo que realmente lo hizo mágico fueron los lugares donde nos hospedamos, los compañeros de montaña y el amor y el cuidado de los guías. Euge y Gus estuvieron en cada detalle, pendiente de cada uno de nosotros, realemente ellos fueron el viaje. La comida increible. Agradecida eternamente con ambos..